A Secret Spring Engagement at Eklutna Tailrace
When Jack reached out with a plan to propose to his girlfriend Madison during their Alaska trip, I knew this session was going to be something special. With help from his amazing mom, Holly, we spent weeks secretly coordinating every detail for a surprise engagement that Madison would never forget.
Jack was ready to give Madison his entire life—he just needed the perfect setting to ask. He sent me the sweetest Pinterest-inspired ideas for a dreamy picnic setup: champagne, a mini charcuterie board, cozy pillows, and a beautiful spring bouquet waiting for her at the proposal spot. We landed on Eklutna Tailrace as the backdrop—peaceful, riverside, and surrounded by just enough wild Alaska to feel magical.
Of course, if you know anything about May in Alaska, you know that the weather has a mind of its own. We crossed our fingers for sunshine, but woke up to misty skies and steady rain. Still, we pushed forward, and nature gave us just enough of a break in the weather to make the moment feel meant to be.
While I hid (very stealthily!) in the bushes with my camera, Jack walked Madison down the riverside path. She instantly teared up as he dropped to one knee and asked the biggest question of their lives. Her answer? A joyful, tear-filled yes.
The rest of the session was filled with laughter, hugs, and just the right kind of misty mountain magic. We took time to celebrate, pop champagne, and capture some cozy, love-filled engagement portraits before sending them off to begin the next chapter of their adventure.
Helping Jack plan this surprise was such an honor. From carefully curating the picnic details to navigating unpredictable weather, it was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best moments come when you embrace the wild, imperfect beauty of the day—and focus on the love at the center of it all.
Planning a Surprise Proposal in Alaska?
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate mountain picnic, a misty lakeside moment, or something totally unique to your love story—I’m here to help make it unforgettable.
💍 Reach out to start planning your secret proposal or engagement session
🗺️ Let’s craft a moment they’ll never see coming… and never forget.